A COMMUNITY arts organisation has picked up the keys to its first permanent base.

Umbrella Arts, which has been working in the community on art and cultural projects in the last seven years, is moving into Leigh Spinners Mill.

An artisan and art gallery store will also be housed there.

The organisation has long term plans to open every day from 9am to 9pm offering a variety of creative sessions for all ages.

Wendy Boyers said: “Having a permanent community art studio is important for the creative futures of our community.

"It gives opportunities for adults who need additional support through our Arts for Health Art Maker groups.

"We are extremely excited and can’t wait to meet members old and new."

Umbrella Arts, which has three directors - Lyndsey Sawhney, Wendy Boyers and Gemma Unsworth - is inviting people to offer ideas for its future.

All ages are welcome to attend the consultation but they are particularly interested in young people aged from 11 to 18 to give their thoughts. This will influence the organisation's youth plans.

Umbrella Arts would also like to discuss men only arts groups for ages 18-30 and 30-60 as well as young adults evening art group for 18-30.

Two consultation sessions take place on Thursday at the Park Lane mill.

They will take place from 1pm to 2pm and 7pm to 8pm.

If you cannot make either of these session, email your ideas or questions to info@umbrella-arts.org.

The organisation has been working with public bodies in the last year to find inspiration about its next steps too.